réveils

Réveil is a French noun meaning waking up or, more commonly, the device used to wake someone. In practice, réveils (the plural) refers to alarm clocks, whether mechanical, electric, or digital, as well as the moment at which a person awakens.

Historically, devices to signal waking emerged in Europe during the Middle Ages and the early modern period. Mechanical alarm clocks with bells appeared in the 15th to 16th centuries, becoming increasingly common in households by the 19th century. The development of electric and electronic alarms followed in the 20th century, expanding the range of sounds and features available to users.

Modern réveils include wind-up clocks, electric bedside units, digital clocks with LED displays, and radio-controlled models that synchronize with official time signals. Alarm functions have also migrated to smartphones, tablets, and other smart devices. Typical features include a set alarm time, a snooze option, and, in many models, a gradual increase in volume or a light-based wake-up to ease transition from sleep to wakefulness.

In daily life, réveils serve as a routine tool for time management and punctuality, supporting work, education, and personal schedules. The rise of mobile devices has shifted much of the emphasis from dedicated clocks to multifunction devices that integrate alarms with calendars, notifications, and health tracking.